Sachi Minowa-led Osaka dealt first loss in Japan SV.LEAGUE by Jia De Guzman’s Denso
Sachi Minowa and the rest of the Osaka Marvelous fell flat against the undefeated Denso Airybees. | Photo (c) Osaka Marvelous
After going undefeated during last year’s regular season, the Osaka Marvelous were dealt with an early loss in the 2024-25 Japan SV.League, falling to the Denso Airybees in four sets, 13-25, 16-25, 25-23, 20-25, on Saturday, November 2.
Osaka currently sits with a 4-1 record after the loss, tied for second with Astemo Rivale Ibaraki, Saitama Ageo Medics, and Victorina Himeji.
Sachi Minowa, more commonly known as Jaja Santiago, finished with 10 points built on six attacks and four blocks, as Mizuki Tanaka and Belgian import Lise Van Hecke led the way for Osaka with 18 and 15 markers, respectively.
The Airybees, which feature Alas Pilipinas team captain Jia De Guzman, remain the only undefeated team in the season with a 7-0 record led by Brazilian import Rosamaria and outside hitter Saki Ishikura.
Rosamaria put up 29 points on 25 attacks, three blocks, and one service ace. Fellow import Amanda Coneo had 17 markers, while Ishikura added 13 in the win.
De Guzman didn’t see action in this game, but Jia suited up in both wins against the PFU Blue Cats last week, her only appearances so far this season.
As the season progresses, Denso and Osaka are expected to be among the frontrunners for the Japan SV.LEAGUE title, which is currently held by the NEC Red Rockets.
